Significance: Eid al-Adha or Bakri Eid is the second most important festival in Islam. It is also called Festival of Sacrifice. The first most important festival is Eid-al-Fitr which is popularly called “Meethi Eid” in which Muslims celebrate the day by preparing mouth-watering sweet dishes after fasting for a month. Editor | A TO Z INDIA [email protected] +91-7550160116 History of Bakri Eid or Eid-ul-Adha: The story behind this festival Bakri Eid is celebrated to honor the greatest test that God took of Ibrahim. According to legend, Ibrahim experienced nightmares in which he saw himself slaughtering his son Ishmael for God. When Ibrahim told about God’s will to his son, the latter at once agreed to get slaughtered. However, the “Shaitaan” coaxed Ibrahim to not obey God’s will. But, Ibrahim could manage to resist the temptation of Shaitaan. He hurled pebbles at the Shaitaan. That’s the reason people throw stones at the symbolic pillar during the Hajj rites. This ritual is called “Stoning of the Devil.” It marks the people’s rejection of Satan. Eventually, God was happy to see the willingness of Ibrahim and his son Ishmael for the sacrifice. God noted that Ibrahim was ready to sacrifice what was most beloved for him – his son. Impressed by this, Angel Gabriel gave Prophet Ibrahim a lamb from heaven and asked him to sacrifice this lamb instead of his son. This is how the “Festival of Sacrifice” or Bakri Eid came to be celebrated. Muslims all over the world honor Ibrahim’s commitment to obey God’s orders and Ishmael’s survival. Muslims sacrifice “bakri” or goats to mark this day. From the Editor's Desk: “Festival of Sacrifice” or Bakri Eid The editorial talks about the Festival of Sacrifice, its history and significance. In dira Sriva tsa A TO Z INDIA JULY 2022 PAGE 4 In India, Bakri Eid will be celebrated on July 10th. This Eid falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, which is the pilgrimage month for Muslims across the world. This is the 12th month of the Lunar or Islamic calendar Eid-al-Adha. The day marks the end of the annual Hajj Pilgrimage, which is also called Qurban Bayarami or Eid Qurban. Happy Bakra Eid! Enjoy reading and keep smiling!!!